📖Easter 3 Epistle Reading: Revelation 5:8-14
In Revelation 5:8-14, John witnesses a profound moment of worship centered on Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb.
This passage follows chapter 4’s creation-focused praise and shifts to celebration of God’s salvation plan.
The scene begins with John weeping because no one is worthy to open a sealed scroll containing God’s complete salvation plan.
(In ancient custom, only a rightful heir could break such seals.)
Then appears “the Lamb, standing as though it had been slain” — Jesus Christ, who alone is worthy to open the scroll because of his sacrificial death.
This triggers an outpouring of praise from all creation:
First, the four living creatures and twenty-four elders sing: “Worthy are you to take the scroll and open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on earth.”
Then countless angels join with a sevenfold praise: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!”
Finally, every creature in heaven, earth, under the earth, and in the sea unites in worship of both God the Father and Jesus the Lamb.
This passage reveals Jesus as both sacrificial victim and victorious king.
The cross, once an instrument of death, becomes the banner of the church and symbol of triumph.
Creation rejoices because Christ lives, reigns over all, and faithfully provides for his people forever.
Steve Andrews Jr is pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO.
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